Interpersonal Therapy
in Sydney and the Sutherland Shire

At Evolving Minds Counselling and Psychology, our psychologists and counsellors provide Interpersonal Therapy (IPT) for adolescents, adults and older adults across Sydney and the Sutherland Shire. Appointments are available in person at our Menai practice in the Sutherland Shire and online across Australia.

Interpersonal Therapy (IPT), also known as Interpersonal Psychotherapy, is an evidence-based psychological therapy that focuses on the connection between relationships, life events and emotional experiences. Originally developed as a treatment for depression, IPT is now used to support a range of mental health presentations.

IPT may be helpful when relationship difficulties, communication problems or significant life changes are affecting mood. It focuses on understanding these connections and identifying changes in how you relate and communicate with others.

What is interpersonal therapy?

Interpersonal Therapy focuses primarily on current relationships and life circumstances. Past experiences may be explored where helpful to understand interpersonal patterns, although the main focus of therapy is on how these patterns influence present-day relationships and emotional experiences.

Therapy is collaborative and practical. Sessions focus on understanding what is happening in your relationships now and identifying changes that feel realistic and manageable.

In IPT, your psychologist or counsellor may work with you to:

Understand how relationships affect mood and emotional responses
Identify patterns in communication or interpersonal interactions
Develop skills to manage conflict and express needs more clearly
Strengthen supportive relationships and social connections
Navigate significant life changes or transitions

What does IPT help with?

depression or persistent low mood
anxiety linked to relationship stress
grief and bereavement
ongoing conflict or difficult relationship patterns
life transitions such as separation, parenthood or career change
feeling isolated or disconnected from others

IPT is one of several evidence-based therapies used at Evolving Minds. It is often used alongside relationship counselling and perinatal counselling where life transitions, communication patterns or new parenthood are part of what's being worked through.